Itami, which translates to "pain" in Japanese, might be an apt name for this band, as their sound may indeed be a painful experience for some listeners, while others may find it exhilarating. With their EP Until It Bleeds, I feel like it's going to be a very clear-cut reaction from people: you'll either love this band or you won't. It's definitely a "ride or die" situation—there's no middle ground here.
One of the most noticeable aspects of the album is the production and mixing, which, at times, feels like its weakest link. The sound comes off as low-budget and overly distorted, which might put some listeners off. The guitars, in particular, often sound muddled and rough around the edges. However, as the EP progresses, there's a noticeable improvement in both the production and the overall mixing. The rough patches start to smooth out, and by the end of the album, the overall sound seems to have found a bit more clarity.
Speaking of guitars, there’s room for improvement here as well. The opening track, in particular, feels very stiff and inorganic—almost like the guitarists are holding back. But by the end of the EP, there’s a noticeable shift. The guitars become more loose and organic, as if the players themselves have relaxed and found their groove. It’s clear they have the potential, but they need more time to refine their skills.
On the other hand, the bass and drums are a highlight throughout the EP. The bass is groovy, providing a solid foundation that complements the rest of the instruments, while the drums pack a punch, keeping the energy high. There are a few moments where the drums get lost in the mix, but it’s not enough to detract from the overall experience.
The true standout of the band is the vocalist. His performance is incredibly impressive, with a vocal range that’s both powerful and dynamic. From fried screams to long, drawn-out growls, he brings an intensity to the band that’s hard to ignore. His voice is definitely one of the band’s strongest assets and gives the music a real sense of identity and presence.
Overall, the band brings a lot of raw energy to the table, with that unmistakable "local band" vibe. But there's clear potential for them to push further—to refine their sound and become a bigger and better version of themselves. You can hear the hints of greatness in this EP, but there’s still a lot of work to be done before they fully realize that potential. Tightening up the riffs and focusing on more cohesive song structures would be key steps in their development. Nonetheless, this EP shows that they have the foundation of something worth exploring, and with time and refinement, they could really make an impact.
RATING: 6/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Binding Grief
Of Outcasts And Exiles